Coleambally Central School cadet firefighters celebrate graduation

NSW RFS Assistant Commissioner Jason Heffernan said the program is the ideal way to introduce young people to the important role volunteer firefighters play within communities.

"These cadets have completed a ten week course that has given them skills which will last a lifetime,” Assistant Commissioner Heffernan said.

“As well as examining fire behaviour, the students have been taught essential fire safety techniques and gained an appreciation of the work our emergency services do every day in this State.

"The cadet program also offers students the opportunity to experience firsthand the commitment and camaraderie that comes with volunteering.”

Assistant Commissioner Heffernan said this is the second year that Coleambally Central School has offered the NSW RFS Secondary School Cadet Program to its students.

“It’s great to see genuine enthusiasm for this important community based program,” Assistant Commissioner Heffernan said.

“In addition to our NSW RFS members, I would also like to extend a special thanks to the Principal, teachers and staff from Colleambally Central School for helping to make this program such a success.

Assistant Commissioner Heffernan also paid tribute to the staff and volunteers from the MIA District who facilitated the course.

"NSW RFS members thoroughly enjoy working closely with schools and communities to ensure that everyone is as well prepared as possible for the very real threat of fire. Our firefighters cannot do it alone,” Assistant Commissioner Heffernan said.

“The Service is proud to pass on the ideals of community service, dedication and teamwork to the next generation.”